What constitutes a 'field interview'?

A 'field interview' is defined as a voluntary encounter between an officer and an individual. This interaction typically occurs in a public setting and allows officers to gather information or assess a situation without the formalities of an arrest or a mandatory questioning. During a field interview, the individual is not compelled to answer questions or participate.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of consent and the non-coercive nature of the encounter, distinguishing it from other types of interactions such as interrogations, which are more formal, and often conducted in controlled environments like police stations. Additionally, while officers may engage with citizens socially in different contexts, this does not define a field interview, which specifically pertains to gathering information relevant to policing.